This winter's death rates could well be the worst since the turn of the century, as freezing temperatures and virulent flu take their toll on tens of thousands of Britain's frail and elderly.
Winter always sees an increase in death rates - on average, 25,000 more older people die between December and March. But experts are already warning that this tough winter could see at least a doubling of that figure.
Dr Alan Maryon-Davis, president of the UK Facility of Public Hea3th, said there was a known correlation between the weather and mortality rates. For every 1C the temperature falls below the winter average, there are some 8,000 extra deaths in Britain - a higher proportion of the population than in Finland or Russia, where inhabitants are better prepared for harsh winters.
Winter always sees an increase in death rates - on average, 25,000 more older people die between December and March. But experts are already warning that this tough winter could see at least a doubling of that figure.
Dr Alan Maryon-Davis, president of the UK Facility of Public Hea3th, said there was a known correlation between the weather and mortality rates. For every 1C the temperature falls below the winter average, there are some 8,000 extra deaths in Britain - a higher proportion of the population than in Finland or Russia, where inhabitants are better prepared for harsh winters.
For more details see Guardian On line.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment